Dermal Fillers: What It Is and What to Expect
Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Dermal Fillers?
A dermatologist or a plastic surgeon usually injects dermal fillers. The FDA says to seek a licensed health care provider with experience in dermatology or plastic surgery. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
Dermal fillers are also called soft tissue fillers or wrinkle fillers. The FDA has approved them to help create a smoother or fuller look in the face.
Some fillers are made from hyaluronic acid gel, collagen, or fat taken from your own body.
Why a doctor might recommend it
Dermatologists say not to overdo fillers. A mild approach gives more natural results. Temporary fillers are approved for moderate to severe wrinkles and skin folds on the face. They are also approved to add fullness to the lips, cheeks, chin, and back of the hand.
How to prepare
A dermatologist always sets up a talk with you before injecting a filler.
Tell your doctor about all medical conditions that you have. Also tell your doctor about every medicine, vitamin, and herbal product you take.
Some fillers contain lidocaine, collagen, or egg products, so tell your doctor about any allergies. If your skin is inflamed or infected, filler injection should be delayed until that has been managed.
What happens during it
- Hands generally do not need anesthesia.
- Most filler treatments take between 15 and 30 minutes and need one office visit.
- You may need ice, an anesthetic applied to the skin, or a nerve block, which is an injection.
- You may feel a stinging or burning feeling as the filler is injected.
Recovery
Most people can go back to daily life after leaving the office.
- Wait until the next day to exercise or do other strenuous activity.
- Do not use a tanning bed.
- Avoid touching the treated area for three days, unless you are told to massage it.
Most fillers do not cause downtime. You should be able to put on makeup before you leave the office. Most fillers give results right away or close to it.
Risks and side effects
Common risks include bruising, redness, swelling, and pain. Redness, swelling, tenderness, and bruising tend to clear within 7 to 14 days, if not earlier.
The biggest risk is a filler injected into a blood vessel by mistake, which cuts off blood supply to tissues. The chance is low, but the problems can be serious and may be permanent. Problems reported include tissue death, blindness, and stroke.
Call 911 or go to the emergency room right away for unusual pain or vision changes after the procedure. Do the same if skin near the injection site looks white, gray, or blue. Also get emergency help right away for signs of a stroke, such as sudden trouble speaking, or numbness or weakness in your face, arms, or legs. Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have trouble breathing, chest pain or discomfort lasting two minutes or more, fainting, or bleeding that will not stop.
Who performs it
The AAD says to see a doctor with skill at injecting fillers and many happy patients. A dermatologist can inject fillers safely and effectively. The FDA says getting a filler is a medical procedure. Never get a filler injected at a non-medical spa, party, salon, or someone's home.
Common questions
How long do dermal fillers last?
It depends on the filler material and the area where it is injected. Most fillers give temporary results and need repeat treatments to keep the results.
Does getting a dermal filler hurt?
You may feel a stinging or burning feeling as the filler is injected.
Can I inject dermal fillers myself or buy them online?
No, the FDA says not to inject yourself with dermal fillers. The FDA also says not to buy fillers online, because they could be fake or not approved in the U.S.
How does a direct primary care or concierge doctor fit in?
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
Sources
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration - Dermal Fillers (Soft Tissue Fillers)
- American Academy of Dermatology - Fillers: FAQs
- American Academy of Dermatology - Fillers: Preparation
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
